Senators want county leaders better equipped

Senators want county assembly representatives better equipped to undertake their duties effectively.

They specifically want the leaders provided with computers and other Information Communication and Technology materials as well as a data bank to help them conduct research while making laws in their respective assemblies.

Media centres

Further, the Senators also want county governments to establish well-equipped media centres to boost the work of journalists in their areas.

The demands were contained in a motion moved by Nyeri Senator Mutahi Kagwe on Wednesday.

While moving the motion on Wednesday, Senator Kagwe said it was unfortunate County Assembly representatives had been overlooked in provision of equipment, yet they were required to make relevant laws for their respective counties.

Nyamira Senator Kennedy Mongare seconded the motion. “We expect these leaders to come up with budgets and make laws yet they are not adequately equipped to do their work properly. Just ask one of them for a meeting and your best bet is that your will either meet in tea rooms or pubs,” he said.

Mr Kagwe explained that journalists required a media centre due to their important role in the country.

“Freedom of media in Kenya should be supported without exception. It is the most important estate and they too must be treated with the importance they deserve. The facilities should not be provided to compromise them but to bolster their oversight role.”

Kisii Senator Chris Obure said there were many professionals who had taken up responsibilities as county representatives.

“It is not right to let them operate from their cars, bars and other areas. They should have decent offices,” he said.